7 Plant Medicines to replace OTC Pain Killers

Guest blogger: John Adams

If you pop a pill or two to manage pain on a daily basis, consider yourself a drug addict. Allopathic medication is commonly used for treating disorders and obtaining pain relief nowadays. This medicine is made from strong chemicals, which can harm the body if overdosed. OTC drugs often have side effects, so one has to deal with a new condition in order to take care of the previous one. Few medicines get revoked by Personal Injuries because the drawbacks surpass the benefit.

Many medicines stop being effective after we use them for a long time, but we don’t quit because it becomes a matter of habit. Overuse of allopathic painkillers can be damaging to the body, which is why you should consider switching to herbal alternatives.

The following plant medicines can relieve your pain more effectively, as compared to conventional OTC pills any day:

1. Capsaicin 

This is an active compound extracted from red chili peppers, which belong to the plant genus Capsicum. Capsaicin causes a burning sensation when it comes in contact with any body tissue, but that is part of how it works. It stimulates the agony at first, but then it counteracts the pain signals generated by the body. It is very good at healing minor aches and pains. Capsaicin creams and patches are easily available at drug stores. 

1. Bromelain

Bromelain is a protease enzyme removed from the stems of pineapples, though it is also present in the fruit itself. It is a popular folk medicine used to fight inflammation and muscle sourness. When in contact with the affected body part, it triggers the release of a natural substance that reduces pain and swelling. It is often added to topical medicines and skin ointments.  

1. Rhodiola

Rhodiola Rosea is a flowering plant that grows in cold parts of Europe and Asia. The root extract of this plant contains a combination of anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and immuno-modulatory compounds. The analgesic reaction of the herb inhibits hyperalgesia, thermal pain, and irritation induced by formalin. 

1. Arnica

Arnica is a flowering plant belonging to the daisy family, Asteraceae. It is known by a few other names as well, including wolf’s bane and mountain tobacco. The flowers and roots of this plant are used to heal arthritis pain, muscle sprains/strains, and bruises. Its diluted form is present in several homeopathic drugs. 

1. White Willow Bark

The white willow tree bark has been used as a natural remedy for healing pain for thousands of years. It’s anti-pyretic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties allow it to work like an aspirin. It is usually sold in a distilled tincture form; next time you get a throbbing headache, a drop or two is all you need to attain relief. 

1. Devil’s Claw

Devil’s claw is a unique flowering plant of the sesame family, and an herb native to South Africa. It’s roots can be consumed orally to ease arthritis and back pain. It is also known to eradicate fever and indigestion. It is essentially effective against pain and swelling caused by Rheumatoid Arthritis. 

1. Boswellia

This is a substance obtained from the Boswellia Serrata tree, also known as Indian Frankincense. Asian and African folk medicine has used boswellia resin for treating chronic pain and inflammatory illnesses since centuries. If is safe for adults to consume about 1g of Boswellia extract per day, but it can be problematic for people suffering from GERD. 

 

Author Bio

John Adams is a lifestyle blogger who creates content focused on healthcare and personal well-being. He encourages readers to take care of their body and mind to live an ideal life. He also stresses on improving one’s quality of life via positive thoughts and actions. Blogging about personal opinions and life experiences makes John happy, and he is always open to constructive criticism.